I'd like to point out that with Avast Hardened Mode, if you use bridged 32bit VST's, you may have an issue.
In my case, the VST would appear to be disabled.
This was due to the reaper_host32.exe (32 bit) process not being able to start.
What I did to resolve the problem is place the Reaper program directory in the exception list.
I know that only a small amount of people may be affected as most turn off or do not run Avast or any antivirus on their system.
But for those who do I'd like to make you aware of this potential issue.